There are No Shortcuts to Success | Jason Oppenheim | TEDxBerkeley

As President and Founder of The Oppenheim Group, Jason leads a team responsible for representing buyers and sellers of distinguished properties throughout Los Angeles.
Jason also receives significant attention within the real estate community and beyond as a star of the hit Netflix show Selling Sunset, featuring his brokerage and agents as they sell luxury homes to their affluent and celebrity clients. He is consistently ranked as a top agent in the country and the #1 real estate agent in the Hollywood Hills/West Hollywood by the Wall Street Journal, and identified as a Top Real Estate Agent in Los Angeles by The Hollywood Reporter and Variety in their annual lists. With more than $1 billion in closed sales, he currently has more than $300 million in active listings, including the largest home in the Hollywood Hills and one of the largest listings in Los Angeles at $100 million. Throughout his career, Jason has traveled to more than seventy-five countries on five continents identifying select properties and leading numerous multi-million dollar real estate transactions.
Jason received his law degree and an undergraduate degree from UC Berkeley, where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa and first in his class. After law school, Jason joined the Los Angeles office of the international law firm O’Melveny & Myers where he represented a broad range of corporate clients including the former CEO of Enron Corporation in a multi-billion dollar civil class action as well as the widely publicized Enron criminal trial. He later represented Advanced Micro Devices in a worldwide monopolization suit against Intel Corporation. Jason’s trial work, along with others’, has been featured prominently in The American Lawyer, New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and other major publications.
As President and Founder of The Oppenheim Group, Jason leads a team responsible for representing buyers and sellers of distinguished properties throughout Los Angeles.
Jason also receives significant attention within the real estate community and beyond as a star of the hit Netflix show Selling Sunset, featuring his brokerage and agents as they sell luxury homes to their affluent and celebrity clients. He is consistently ranked as a top agent in the country and the #1 real estate agent in the Hollywood Hills/West Hollywood by the Wall Street Journal, and identified as a Top Real Estate Agent in Los Angeles by The Hollywood Reporter and Variety in their annual lists. With more than $1 billion in closed sales, he currently has more than $300 million in active listings, including the largest home in the Hollywood Hills and one of the largest listings in Los Angeles at $100 million. Throughout his career, Jason has traveled to more than seventy-five countries on five continents identifying select properties and leading numerous multi-million dollar real estate transactions.
Jason received his law degree and an undergraduate degree from UC Berkeley, where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa and first in his class. After law school, Jason joined the Los Angeles office of the international law firm O’Melveny & Myers where he represented a broad range of corporate clients including the former CEO of Enron Corporation in a multi-billion dollar civil class action as well as the widely publicized Enron criminal trial. He later represented Advanced Micro Devices in a worldwide monopolization suit against Intel Corporation. Jason’s trial work, along with others’, has been featured prominently in The American Lawyer, New York Times, Los Angeles Times, and other major publications. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@GrahamStephan]

This is awesome!!

[@danielhunter6953]

Were you in the background of Selling Sunset?

[@vannessavlogs8652]

@@danielhunter6953 yeah he used to work with the Oppenheim group

[@AestheticsbyAnnie]

Jason keeps it real. The hustle energy is palpable.

[@mehad9885]

ahhh your the guy from selling sunset!! : ) JK

[@BlockHeadGG]

Super awesome. Loved the Ice Coffee Hour interview with Jason. Alex did a good job standing in for Jack. After watching that podcast I was recommended this in the browse feed. Jason is a Boss. People can learn a lot from a person like this.

[@GleamyGleamyGlamGlam]

This just goes to show that you can’t judge a book by its cover. You never know what someone has gone through to get where they are. Congratulations on all of the hard work and success. 😊

[@bridgetanastasiawesson]

He is a great man. One of the best speeches I've ever heard.

[@marloesstam9036]

I love his story. Esp that success isn't a coincidence and that you have to work hard and go through difficult life challenges to get there.

[@SharonsCupofTea]

Hands down the best TEDTalk I’ve watched in a long time. Very inspiring.

[@Jason-jd6ro]

Though this talk falls into the large box labeled hard work translates to success, I found his story interesting and inspiring. Thanks Ted Talks for selecting him as a speaker.

[@susiebutler8757]

Wonderful story. I was raised by a military father. What I learned by 5 years old, still help me today. If you fall down, get up and try it again.

[@SunshineJoleen]

Being a parent is hard. Especially a single mother to two boys. I don't think the camp was a quick fix, she likely tried talking/ scolding for years and the camp was an act of desperation. The dad... he literally never went out of his way. Made the boys tag along to all his activities, from the morning workout to his actual job. Glad that turned them around, but the reason why isn't obvious. I think it was almost like that person who manages to open the jar after you spent hours loosening it, then they get all the credit. Those boys could have refused to wake up for the workouts, snuck out, talked back or disrupted their dad's work. But they cooperated. They wanted their father in their lives and clearly straightened up once they felt he was making them a priority.

[@nicksaetern8332]

Omg they owe their mother an apology!

[@lareinaar]

I was thinking the same thing throughout the whole talk. Where was their dad when their mom was struggling?

[@jordanb9363]

I don't think he was just saying dad good, mom bad. He's simply sharing his story that 30-day quick fix wasn't enough. It was slogging through day-in-n-day-out for 8 years that changed him. No reason to read between the lines

[@marymangiaracina5332]

Much Respect to Jason even more so. I see on the show how his compassion and understanding to the girls and Always supports second chances which makes perfect sense after hearing this❤tough love is the Greatest gift a parent can provide for their children❤God Blessed the broken road and mended the pathway on the right track🙏

[@Uniuni266]

Thank you for sharing this today Jason. I needed this.

[@adelapalma1443]

Starting at a later age 57. in California I went Real Estate school in 2006 did the state exam and was 2 points from passing and didn't go back...real state is my passion and now here in Arizona starting all over after all this time, Thanks for sharing your story you inspire me. 🤝

[@leeeller8303]

You’re inspiring :)

[@limormarkovzki8451]

Go live your dreams. Kick it!!!

[@lizz3104]

Wow! Wishing you the best of luck. You are inspiring as well.

[@aishajourno]

This is interesting. Without disputing his hard work, tough childhood, and educational background - his success now lies in the Oppenheim Group which comes from generational wealth that he fails to mention. Founded in Hollywood by Jacob Stern in 1889 as The Stern Realty Co., The Oppenheim Group represents five generations of real estate development, management and brokerage services in Los Angeles. Jacob Stern, Brett and Jason’s great-great-grandfather, was one of the preeminent real estate entrepreneurs of early Los Angeles. No amount of hard work and late nights will land you a grandfather with tons of money and real estate expertise.

[@HH-rz7lk]

This comment should be pinned!

[@seelengoldt8682]

So true & important! It is not only about working hard and hustling. A lot of us will never make it this far, although they work their asses off.

[@anitavirginillo]

I have a whole new level of respect for this guy!!

[@truthoverall]

Just saw this man on The Wolf of Wallstreet's podcast 💯 intelligent and well spoken. Discipline outwins talent. Never knew he went to a Correctional camp btw

[@chrisklaeffling1]

Its awesome because he is honest. A father figure is important and change takes time (8 years) Thanks for sharing!

[@brokersuzanne]

I'm an agent/broker-salesperson. I loved law before. I love the law in real estate. 27 years in and it's the same but never the same. Jason, thank you for showing off what our world is like. You've done it smart. Take the time to show the struggles of prospecting, starting over every time and how we struggle to survive when things don't work glamorously. You're a beautiful person with a wonderful gift.

[@TheFearlessBeauty]

Damn, I didn't know his story was like this. So much respect for him. Great talk!

[@efraguerrero]

Wow! I watch Selling Sunset. Never ever would I have imagined the struggle, hard work, persistence and dedication they went through. Respect them even more!

[@curinbenbow7944]

I love this! I feel so inspired. Thanks for sharing Jason. Hard work pays off!

[@Happypandabear]

I admire him so much more now. So happy that this story is told. It really touched my heart. Greetings en blessings!

[@shaneelarahman484]

I cant express how much I LOVED this

[@ComeHereGreatness]

Believe in yourself and you can do whatever you want.

[@JessiPerez1234]

Jason you are a good man, thank you for sharing your story, it’s very encouraging 👏

[@thamari.rivera5624]

Who knew??? I have watched every episode and I love Selling Sunset so I was curious to hear Jason's talk. Thank you so much for being so transparent Jason ❤

[@SharonTseung]

Wow this is so awesome hearing Jason (and Brett’s) life stories! Inspired

[@Natsf7]

Thank you for sharing your story, Jason. I’m going to share your story with my son. Much respect. Yes, no shortcuts to success. We love your team and show, Selling Sunset!!

[@dorothyedwards7225]

Wow!! That's incredible and astounding!! I felt ripple effects! Congratulations Jason!

[@dajanadedic5133]

Excellent talk!

[@naheedali8035]

So much respect for u. I was a fan of you on selling sunset, now have so much admiration for your journey. Had no idea what you had been through, but your hard work and perseverance paid off. It’s a lesson for us all. You can’t give up. I Will share this with my kids 👏🏼👏🏼 thanks for sharing

[@aureliegeelen9009]

Inspiring ❤ thx from Belgium

[@garimajain201]

Everything he shared was coming from his heart, i could sensed it. Clear message to not judge anyone. No one knows anyone's sturggles or what led them to make certain choices. Wonderful !

[@pjdgoblue8852]

Jason thanks for sharing your life Journey and how much your Dad helped you turn around your life with hard work and discipline!

[@tiara5506]

Amazing Jason. What an inspiration!!

[@nisatrinidad5750]

What an amazing life story. Respect to you & your brother.💙

[@aaarwing]

One of the best story ever heard, thanks for the honesty.

[@olyavoinova]

A beautiful Man. Respect!

[@cynthiawilliams9458]

Great life story. Well done, Sir! Selling Sunset has something for everyone......

[@extrasalexisparrapulido]

No shortcuts👌🏽I’m newly licensed real estate agent in the Bay Area and the road to success gonna be a long one but worth every damn second

[@mbcmama55]

Very inspirational! Thank you for sharing

[@steph23589]

Thank you for all the teachings and most importantly for sharing your story. You have inspired me. All the best!

[@joshuazayas1040]

the power of having a father in your life, very important

[@victortarroni]

So real Jason! Thank you for sharing!

[@joycebarnett6035]

Sometimes those small deals turn into big deals great inspiring story. My first real estate sale I showed my buyer 50 homes lol agents were coming up to me saying I have seen your card everywhere lol. He bought the first house I showed him the same thing happened again with another buyer. Determination and consistency pays off.

[@n.m.2075]

Such a powerful talk Jason!

[@lutonyajohnsontv6069]

This is so inspiring. ✨I really admire Jason

[@DanielMcVicarOfficial]

Wonderful to see thankyou!

[@fionastout-horn8582]

This is one of the best TedTalks

[@Magnate1992]

Thank you Jason. Great talk

[@anitadeoliveira2595]

So inspiring!!! Love this. Shows how you don't have to stay in the bad situation your in. If you work hard and don't give up you can achieve alot.

[@SwahiliSpicE]

Being 33 and analysing all the successes I’ve had in hindsight, I am also coming to the realisation that there are no shortcuts and persistence in hardwork is the key. If you stop aiming, you will never shoot, but if you keep aiming for that goal, eventually you shoot but it doesn’t happen overnight.

[@cabilgibbs]

Great One!!

[@matthoward5420]

That is by far one of the best speeches I have ever heard 👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@valeriewarren9240]

So good! Inspiring!

[@NeeceeDior]

So Inspiring ✨

[@joyslove3858]

That's the best "motivational" talk I've ever heard in my life!

[@shellyclayton202]

Thank you for being open... to sharing your story! amazing journey! : )

[@nenaneno6121]

That's so inspired , thanks

[@Startupsandsushi]

This is incredible. Speechless 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽💯💯💯

[@JoseRivera-vm2dd]

Great talk. Everything he says is true. There are no shortcuts.. but the shortcut to a Home in Illinois by using me as your realtor. Jose Rivera, Coldwell Banker.

[@peterrabjergrasmussen6354]

You deserve all your success 🙏🏻

[@genellebrown3777]

This was one of the best Ted Talks yet. Great job, Jason! Thanks!

[@choosetobefree]

Most impactful part 10:31 was the turning point, the humble willingness to reinvent yourself a second time by enduring a long period of unwell uncertainty for the sake of seeking true fulfillment. So determined. Yet, the interesting contradictions in the beginning of the story -didn't think they were bad 'D' kids lashing out. Plus, I thought initially Jason's dad was going to be renegade out of the picture completely with the biker gang but in fact quite the opposite.. good-going all you's / so much respects now onto ya guys.. thanks for sharing!

[@sharlyw9618]

Amazing. Thank you Jason. Thank you.

[@glojac]

Wow! Respect!

[@roxannerodriguez2582]

I love this!!! Thank you Jason!

[@nhipham3892]

Jason you're so inspiring! Thank you for that!

[@daysiaklossner2435]

Yassss! I love selling sunset

[@djennykalifaite]

Terrific story, thank you for sharing

[@lynnfamilia1114]

Thank you Jason

[@SG-hh8fs]

very inspiring, Jason

[@kaialoha-bs2gm]

This guy is a true role and hero unlike the avengers!

[@danielamullenaux]

Wow, I love these kind of stories! I have mad respect for Jason. I would love to do a deal with him one day ;-)

[@fowziazia6193]

Love ur story n honesty. My brother in law is a well known architect. Love the real state n love ur show. I have been watching the million dollar shows for so many years, urs is becoming my fav, in fact u are selling my brothers in law new mansion for 25 millions.

[@camiii4261]

why does this video not have more views??? sooo inspiring!!! :)

[@dotti250]

This is my favourite Ted Talk. Thank you Jason 🙏🏻 I learnt a lot 💕💕💕

[@kathyd8896]

Thank you for sharing. This empowers so many people and sparks a light for those that need it this very moment. Thank you! Knew you were good at English…saw you correcting someone’s grammar on the show. Literally binged watched and finished last night.

[@nvr7450]

I think he connected the dots as to why him and his twin are so cool. Fantastic video.

[@alisaberlinese]

Thanks for sharing, Jason! Very inspiring 🙏🏻

[@Santafefashionweek]

Great Ted Talk

[@calimaciek]

Loved it!

[@wd2660]

Thank you for this video! Very inspiring AND realistic!

[@piramidazywieniowa]

You really inspired me. Thanks to you I tried a day trading.

[@beth-elking2813]

THANK - YOU !!!

[@elizabethdiaz6469]

I really love this! Jason you’re an inspiration!!

[@kathleencotton8404]

Wow!!! who would have thought...Awesome...Would love to meet him and his brother

[@METHODECM]

Wow thank you so much for sharing this!!!

[@privateequityguy]

Every family has a person who breaks the chain of poverty. *I hope you will be that person!*

[@EDINBIRKIN]

Wow! Best TedTalk I've seen!

[@gerardolindaorozco4120]

I love your honesty and transparency! this video will help many young people !

[@minahzondani]

Well said there is no shortcuts in life.. Patience is the key in what a person want to become... Thank you for those encouraging words.... I hv watched Selling Sunsets... You can go international by selling houses. Connecting 🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦

[@GKVKuddel55]

Thanks!

[@denisecarreras7161]

You really inspire me a lot. I hope one day I can be like you or work with you hahah thank you for this incredible talk! Greetings from Argentina 🇦🇷🤍✨🙏🏽

[@MeditationsbyNancy]

Such a great talk. THANK YOU 👏🏽👏🏽

[@cinthiamacey6473]

Love it! Thank you for sharing.

[@__jae]

This was really great 👏

[@tonicalderon700]

What a crazy story! Can you please write a book?

[@rebeccajenkins1553]

It's nice he made it big in a profession after a troubled childhood. His mom was never home. He and his brother rebelled. A homemaker and mom I was thrust into trying to find a career as a single parent after my divorce. I often think what if I made mote money what if I was more successful . But you know what I was home. My kids never did drugs never drank didn't party never broke laws . I caught them in the kitchen one night baking chocolate chip cookies and making macaroni nd cheese at 11pm while watching a sweet movie. No issues. Mom was home. We struggled financially. They have a clean record. They haven't become financially wealthy yet but two own homes all three are employed. The lack of financial success was hard on me as I am homeless but they had a home life. They are all confident. With all of his success he mentions nothing by about faith.

[@QuynhHo]

Love this!!! So good!!

[@guiizemusic]

Inspiring!

[@kimora9088]

Wow. Needed to hear this today